Known as the world’s oldest and continually inhabited city, Varanasi is a time-honoured city of spiritual bliss and historic remnants. The city is marked with a labyrinth of narrow alleyways lined with houses, myriad of shops, innumerable holy Ghats, crowded streets, heritage monuments and age-revered temples. Varanasi offers a spiritual charm along with the essence of a simple and ritualistic lifestyle. It is a unique example of ‘Unity in diversity’ from the religious point of view; the multi-religious aspect of the place will astonish you. The ethereal blaze of the evening aarti along the banks of River Ganges is a mesmerizing sight. Behold the glory of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Temple, Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Benares Hindu University, Ramnagar Fort and Museum and many more heritage sites. Soak in the holistic eternity that this old city adorns. Discover the spiritual activities and erstwhile grandeur of the city. If you are planning for a city tour, do keep Varanasi on your to-visit list, and unfold the mystical resplendence of the city.
Prayagraj is a city that personifies the rich and vibrant culture of India. The city is also known as Prayag, and the name is derived from its position at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Located in Uttar Pradesh, it is said to be the second-oldest city in India. The city has an interesting history, and it plays a central role in the Hindu scriptures. Today, the city is undergoing rapid development and is contributing to the growth of India. It is home to a number of prestigious educational and research institutions. Prayagraj maintains its cultural roots by hosting major events such as the Kumbh Mela, which is held every twelve years and attracts millions of tourists and visitors from all over the country. The fair is generally considered as the world's largest congregation of religious pilgrims. Several famous personalities such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Amitabh Bachchan, and Dhyan Chand belonged to this city. There are numerous places of interest in Allahabad, such as Jawahar Planetarium, which is located beside Anand Bhawan, the former residence of the Nehru-Gandhi family, Triveni Sangam and Allahabad Fort, a fortress built by the Mughal emperor Akbar.
Overview
Varanasi – The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Allahabad – Allahabad is the birthplace of Jawaharlal Nehru, and the Nehru family estate, called Anand Bhavan, is now a museum. It is also the birthplace of Indira Gandhi, and the home of Lal Bahadur Shastri, both later prime ministers of India. Vishwanath Pratap Singh and Chandra Shekhar were also associated with Prayagraj.
